After talking to energy and HVAC experts, we uncovered some real-world examples of problems they’ve seen unfold in both newer and older facilities. Read on to see what other facilities professionals have had to deal with in their high-rises, and pick up some pointers on preventing these situations in your own building.

High-def flat screens embedded into bathroom mirrors. Electronic doorbell systems that feature guest presence detection and tray removal tracking. Energy management systems that set lighting and temperature levels based on whether guests are in the room, out of the room, or checked out. All of these technologies are being incorporated into upscale...

Although they’re not incredibly common yet in the United States, mixed-use towers are growing in popularity. They maximize building infrastructure, address density issues, and capitalize on building owners’ investments through multiple income streams. They also provide a type of investment diversification (when office lease rates are down, residential leases may be up, for example). But many of today’s commercial architects find themselves working on...